Ocean Falcon, a brand new Class-A multi role and emergency response and rescue vessel, was christened at a ceremony last week at Aberdeen, Scotland, before starting a contract for Shell.

Atlantic Offshore Rescue will provide emergency recovery, rescue cover, tanker assistance and general field support for offshore operations at the Curlew field, in the North Sea's Scottish waters.

The ship can accommodate 21 employees, and has the amenities to rescue up to 300 people.

As well as incorporating the very latest technology systems including a towing capacity of up to 65 tons, it measures 66.80m by 16m and features two engines each rated 1935kW.

Ocean Falcon is a new H820 design from Havyard Ship Design. It was built and developed in Spain by Zamakona shipbuilders over 18 months.

Its sister ships, Ocean Tay and Ocean Osprey, were launched in early 2014.

"We are immensely proud to unveil Ocean Falcon, the third vessel to be launched as part of our extensive modernisation strategy," AOR managing director Matthew Gordon said.

"The vessel incorporates cutting edge technology, and it is due to this and the expertise and professionalism of our team that we have secured a lucrative contract with an oil and gas operator.

"We are trailblazing the way for emergency support vessels in the North Sea and this program is part of our vision for strategic growth and commitment to offer the very best FSV and ERRVs to existing and potential clients, a vital assurance for offshore operations within the energy sector."

The new vessel is one of 11 ERRVs managed by the company from its new Aberdeen base at Waterloo Quay.

Atlantic Offshore Rescue is part of Norway's Atlantic Offshore Group.